Experimental and Computational Modeling of Microemulsion Phase Behavior

The phase behavior of microemulsions formed in a surfactant-brine-oil system for a chemical Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) application is complex and depends on a range of parameters. Phase behavior indicates a surfactant solubilization. Phase behavior tests are simple but time-consuming especially when it involves a wide range of surfactant choices at various concentrations. An efficient and insightful microemulsion formulation via computational simulation can complement phase behavior laboratory test. Computational simulation can predict various surfactant properties, including microemulsion phase behavior. Microemulsion phase behavior can be predicted predominantly using Quantitative Structure-Property Relationship (QSPR) model. QSPR models are empirical and limited to simple pure oil system. Its application domain is limited due to the model cannot be extrapolated beyond reference condition. Meanwhile, there are theoretical models based on physical chemistry of microemulsion that can predict microemulsion phase behavior. These models use microemulsion surface tension and torque concepts as well as with solution of bending rigidity of microemulsion interface with relation to surface solubilization and interface energy.